WHITE FACED HERON

White faced Heron - (Ardea novaehollandiae) is a self introduced bird to NZ from Australia. Its interesting to note that the neck is retracted in flight and it has a slow leisurely wing beat - this was exaggerated today as this bird flew into a very strong SE wind. They are wading birds feeding mainly on land and water insects. They have an interesting habit of stirring the mud with their lovely feet ? and catching the resultant prey. This one displays its feet in a very neat fashion. They make a loud skreeching cry as they fly - letting you know they object to being disturbed.

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